Lettuce, Tomato, and Cucumber Salad Delight

This refreshing salad combines the crispness of cucumbers, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the pungency of onions, all enhanced with a tangy dressing. Perfect for any time of the year, this salad can be paired with a variety of meals or enjoyed on its own as a light dish. It's incredibly easy to prepare and takes just minutes to assemble. The use of fresh, crunchy vegetables makes it not only delicious but also healthy. With the flexibility of choosing either sour cream or mayonnaise as the dressing base, you can easily tailor it to your taste preferences. The addition of vinegar adds a subtle tang that ties all the flavors together. This salad is versatile, allowing you to add your preferred spices for a personal touch. Enjoy this delightful salad as a side dish or a standalone meal, soaking in the burst of vibrant flavors with every bite. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or a simple family dinner, it's a classic dish that never goes out of style.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

2 long cucumbers
6 tomatoes
2 onions

Sauce:

2 teaspoons vinegar
3 tablespoons sour cream or mayonnaise

Spices:

Spices of your choice

Preparation Time

Total Time: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Begin by thoroughly washing the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions under running water to ensure all dirt is removed.
Slice the cucumbers lengthwise into halves, then cut them into thin half-moon pieces.
For the tomatoes, remove the stems and chop them into bite-sized chunks.
Peel the onions and carefully slice them into fine rings or dice them, depending on your preferred texture.
Place all the chopped vegetables into a large salad bowl, ensuring they are mixed evenly.
Measure 2 teaspoons of vinegar and drizzle over the bowl of vegetables.
Stir the vegetables gently to ensure the vinegar coats each piece thoroughly.
Add 3 tablespoons of your chosen dressing—sour cream or mayonnaise—to the salad.
Mix well until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
Season with your selection of spices, like salt, black pepper, or fresh herbs, to taste.
Toss the salad gently, ensuring that the seasoning is distributed throughout.
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning or add more vinegar if needed for additional tanginess.
Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for a cold, refreshing alternative.
For added texture, consider incorporating croutons or toasted nuts.
If you want a touch of sweetness, a sprinkle of sugar can balance the acidity of the vinegar.
For a zesty kick, add a few drops of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce.
Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning one last time before serving.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added color and flavor.
Enjoy your salad as a delightful appetizer or a healthy snack!

Tips

Substitute vinegar with lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
For a lower-calorie version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or sour cream.
To avoid watery salad, remove seeds from cucumbers and tomatoes before chopping.

Variations

Add feta cheese for a Mediterranean touch.
Incorporate olives for additional flavor depth.
Change up the vegetables by adding bell peppers or radishes.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Serve alongside crusty bread for a satisfying lunch.
Garnish with sunflower seeds or nuts for added crunch.

Nutritions

Calories: Approx. 120 per serving
Protein: 3g
Fats: 8g
Carbs: 10g

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